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Pioneered at Mass General, breast tomosynthesis is a breakthrough in mammography that provides a clearer, more accurate view compared to digital mammography alone.

Daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available on our main campus in Boston and at our imaging locations in Waltham, Revere and Danvers.

Research on breast tomosynthesis in large populations consistently shows:

Improved breast cancer detection rates, especially invasive cancers

A decrease in call backs, which may lessen anxiety for patients

A New Dimension in Breast Cancer Detection

Conventional digital mammography produces one image of overlapping tissue, making it difficult to detect cancers. Performed with digital mammography using the same scanner, breast tomosynthesis takes multiple images of the entire breast. It allows our specialized breast radiologists to see through layers of tissue and examine areas of concern from all angles. Benefits can include:

Earlier detection of small breast cancers that may be hidden during digital mammography

Greater accuracy in pinpointing size, shape and location of abnormalities

At Mass General Imaging, breast tomosynthesis plus digital mammography is standard protocol for all screening mammograms.

Breast Cancer Screening by Specialists

The Breast Imaging Division at Mass General includes a team of specialized breast radiologists from the Department of Radiology who are experts in detecting breast lesions through the use of mammography, ultrasound and MRI. It is part of the Avon Foundation Comprehensive Breast Evaluation Center on the Mass General main campus.

Milestones in Innovation

1992: Mass General Breast Imaging team begins pioneering research into breast tomosynthesis

February 11, 2011: Breast tomosynthesis is approved by FDA

March 7, 2011: Mass General Breast Imaging team performs the first clinical breast tomosynthesis exam in the United States

Ensuring patient safety is our top priority. We pay special attention to minimizing radiation exposure while producing the highest quality image to answer the clinical question. As part of this commitment, we invest in the latest equipment to ensure that our fleet of scanners consistently delivers the lowest dose of radiation possible during an exam.